25 Most Beautiful Beaches in Illinois for a Beach Wedding

Planning a wedding is both thrilling and challenging. One trend that stands out is choosing a beach destination, and Illinois offers a beautiful array of options. Whether you dream of a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, the state’s diverse beaches provide the perfect backdrop for romance and natural beauty. In this post, we will explore 25 of the most breathtaking beaches in Illinois that are sure to make your wedding day unforgettable.

1. North Avenue Beach, Chicago

Wide angle view of a tranquil North Avenue Beach with city skyline — Tranquil North Avenue Beach against the Chicago skyline.

North Avenue Beach is a Chicago favorite, celebrated for its stunning skyline views and soft sandy shores. This beach offers about 1,000 feet of shoreline, providing ample space for both ceremonies and guest seating. Nearby amenities like the beach house ensure your celebration runs smoothly.

2. Montrose Beach, Chicago

High angle view of Montrose Beach with kite surfers — Kite surfers enjoying the water at Montrose Beach.

Spanning over 15 acres, Montrose Beach is ideal for couples looking for a lively atmosphere. The lush parks surrounding the beach make it perfect for wedding photos amidst nature. You could even arrange for a post-ceremony picnic, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their surroundings.

3. Oak Street Beach, Chicago

Eye-level view of Oak Street Beach dotted with colorful umbrellas — Busy Oak Street Beach with colorful umbrellas on fine sand.

Just steps from the bustling downtown area, Oak Street Beach combines city life with natural beauty. The beach has a fantastic view of both the water and the iconic skyscrapers, providing a unique backdrop for sunset ceremonies. Imagine saying “I do” as the sun dips behind the skyline.

4. Adler Planetarium Beach, Chicago

Close-up view of Adler Planetarium Beach with serene water — Serene water at Adler Planetarium Beach contrasting with the city skyline.

The Adler Planetarium Beach offers a touch of elegance with its stunning views of both the planetarium and the skyline. This combination appeals to couples who appreciate a sophisticated environment, making for unique wedding photos and an unforgettable experience.

5. 31st Street Beach, Chicago

Wide angle view of 31st Street Beach with a calm shore — Calm shore of 31st Street Beach inviting couples for a wedding.

31st Street Beach has a beautiful sandy shore and a charming boardwalk. This venue can accommodate weddings of various sizes. Couples can enjoy both the beach and direct access to Lake Michigan, ensuring a perfect setting for warmth and celebration.

6. Indiana Dunes National Park, Chesterton

High angle view of Indiana Dunes National Park with rolling dunes — Rolling dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park perfect for wedding photo ops.

Although located in Indiana, this breathtaking park is just a short drive from Illinois. With 15 miles of shoreline on Lake Michigan and towering sand dunes, it provides an adventurous setting. Imagine exchanging vows with the pristine backdrop of rolling dunes and crashing waves, perfect for adventurous couples.

7. Silver Lake Park, O’Fallon

Close-up view of Silver Lake Park water surface reflecting trees — Peaceful water surface of Silver Lake Park surrounded by greenery.

Silver Lake Park features serene waters framed by beautiful trees. This intimate venue caters well to smaller ceremonies. Couples can create a cozy setting for their guests amidst the park’s natural beauty.

8. Lake Shelbyville Beach, Shelbyville

Eye-level view of a sandy shore at Lake Shelbyville Beach — Sandy shore at Lake Shelbyville Beach ideal for beach weddings.

Lake Shelbyville Beach is a quiet and scenic venue that boasts stunning lakeside views. The expansive sandy areas ensure enough space for a larger gathering while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for focused celebrations.

9. Cape Cod Beach, Illinois Beach State Park

Wide angle view of the expansive shoreline at Cape Cod Beach — Expansive shoreline at Cape Cod Beach in Illinois Beach State Park.

Cape Cod Beach features a calm and secluded area perfect for a romantic wedding. With gentle waves and beautiful scenery, this beach creates an intimate ambiance for couples who want a peaceful experience free from distractions.

10. Weko Beach, Bridgman

Close-up view of Weko Beach with rustic wooden pier — Rustic wooden pier at Weko Beach adds charm to wedding ceremonies.

Weko Beach is known for its rustic charm and stunning views. The pier along the beach is a picturesque spot for wedding photos. Couples can also arrange for a lakeside reception nearby to complete their special day with breathtaking views.

11. Illinois Beach State Park, Zion

High angle view of shallow watersat Illinois Beach State Park — Shallow waters meeting soft sands at Illinois Beach State Park.

Featuring over 4,000 acres, Illinois Beach State Park pairs stunning natural beauty with ample space for festivities. Couples can choose between sandy beach ceremonies or shaded areas surrounded by trees, offering flexibility for their ideal wedding setup.

12. Sunset Beach, Long Lake

Eye-level view of Sunset Beach with beautiful sunset colors in the sky — Vibrant sunset at Sunset Beach locates a romantic atmosphere.

As the name suggests, Sunset Beach provides spectacular sunset views that make for breathtaking wedding photos. Celebrate the beauty of love against a glorious evening sky, capturing memories that last forever.

13. Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area, Rockville

Wide angle view of Raccoon Lake with reflections on the water's surface — Still water of Raccoon Lake reflects the beauty of the surroundings.

Raccoon Lake offers a scenic and charming environment, perfect for couples who admire the tranquility of nature. Nestled among lush greenery, this venue is ideal for a peaceful wedding away from the bustle of city life.

14. Crystal Lake Beach, Crystal Lake

Close-up view of Crystal Lake Beach with clear blue water — Clear blue water at Crystal Lake Beach inviting brides and grooms.

Offering clear blue waters and vibrant community energy, Crystal Lake Beach is great for lively celebrations. With the option of fun water activities, guests can enjoy the beach atmosphere after the ceremony.

15. Tenney Park Beach, Middleton

Eye-level view of Tenney Park Beach with serene lake and lush trees — Lush trees providing a shady ceremony setting at Tenney Park Beach.

Known for its charming environment, Tenney Park Beach provides a lovely setting for wedding ceremonies. The tranquil lake and surrounding greenery make it an inviting place for couples and their guests.

16. Busse Woods Beach, Elk Grove Village

Wide angle view of Busse Woods Beach surrounded by wooded areas — Wooded areas providing a natural beauty backdrop at Busse Woods Beach.

Busse Woods Beach is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an appealing choice for adventurous couples. With hiking trails nearby, guests can explore the area before or after the ceremony, adding an element of fun.

17. Lake Kegonsa State Park, Stoughton

Close-up view of Lake Kegonsa with a small pier extending into water — Charming small pier at Lake Kegonsa surrounded by park greenery.

Lake Kegonsa State Park offers stunning views and expansive areas for larger celebrations. It’s an optimal location for nature lovers wanting to exchange vows beneath the trees or by the water.

18. Clark Lake Beach, Lower Lake

High angle view of Clark Lake Beach with shaded areas nearby — Shaded areas alongside the calm waters of Clark Lake Beach.

Clark Lake Beach is perfect for a secluded wedding ceremony. Its serene environment, combined with shaded seating areas, makes for a pleasurable experience for couples and their guests.

19. Washington Park Beach, Michigan City

Close-up view of Washington Park Beach with people enjoying the sun — People enjoying the sun at Washington Park Beach creating a cheerful vibe.

Washington Park Beach offers a lively atmosphere that is both scenic and fun. The spacious beach is ideal for wedding celebrations and mingling, ensuring guests have plenty of room to spread out.

20. South Shore Beach, Chicago

Wide angle view of South Shore Beach with kite surfers in the background — Kite surfers in action at South Shore Beach with cityscape views.

South Shore Beach is another excellent choice within Chicago, providing a perfect balance between urban excitement and shoreline tranquility. Its proximity to the city may offer additional venue options for reception and entertainment nearby.

21. Oakwood Beach, Chicago

Eye-level view of Oakwood Beach with the skyline in the distance — Skyline of Chicago visible from the peaceful Oakwood Beach.

Blessed with stunning city views, Oakwood Beach has a peaceful atmosphere perfect for intimate weddings. The stunning combination of sand and skyline makes it a unique backdrop.

22. McKinley Beach, Chicago

Close-up view of the calm waters at McKinley Beach with quaint piers — Quaint piers extending into the calming waters of McKinley Beach.

With its hint of seclusion and delightful ambiance, McKinley Beach is ideal for couples desiring a romantic vibe. The gentle waves and quaint piers offer an enchanting feel for a wedding celebration.

23. Schiller Woods Beach, Chicago

High angle view of Schiller Woods Beach with forest surroundings — Forest surroundings providing a unique backdrop at Schiller Woods Beach.

Schiller Woods Beach offers the charm of a beach combined with a tranquil forest setting. This unique environment creates an unforgettable atmosphere for couples looking to tie the knot amid nature.

24. Ludington State Park, Ludington

Wide angle view of beautiful waters and sandy shores at Ludington State Park — Magnificent waters and sandy shores at Ludington State Park.

Known for its extensive sandy beaches and hiking trails, Ludington State Park is perfect for adventurous couples. This location not only serves as a destination for ceremonies but also promises thrilling experiences nearby.

25. Chain O’ Lakes State Park, Spring Grove

Eye-level view of the beautiful waterways at Chain O' Lakes State Park — Breathtaking waterways creating a lovely atmosphere at Chain O’ Lakes State Park.

Lastly, Chain O’ Lakes State Park features stunning waterways and lush scenery, offering a picturesque setting for couples wanting a serene and natural ambiance for their wedding.

Final Thoughts

Illinois boasts some of the most remarkable beach venues, each offering unique landscapes ideal for a memorable wedding celebration. From the urban shores of Chicago to the serene beauty of secluded lakeside locations, the state offers options that cater to every couple’s vision.

With stunning views, tranquil waters, and natural beauty, these beaches are hidden gems ready to host your special day. Gather your loved ones and start your journey of love with a spectacular beach wedding in Illinois!

KW Adventure Explorer